Connectionists: Positions at NSF

[Tuller, Betty K.]

Betty Tuller, Ph.D.
Director, Program in Perception, Action, and Cognition
National Science Foundation
4201 Wilson Blvd
Arlington, VA 22230
Tel: 703.292.7238
Fax: 703.292.9068

New proposal guidelines will be effective January 2010;  see http://www.nsf.gov/pubs/policydocs/pappguide/nsf10_1/index.jsp?org=NSF
 
There are currently several Program Officer positions available at NSF and others should be advertised soon. All NSF openings are listed on the usajobs.gov website. 

Two that are currently listed are for the Developmental and Learning Sciences Program, position numbers E20100018 and E20100019.  They currently have a close date of January 15, 2010.

Another listing for a Program Officer for Perception, Action, and Cognition, and one for Social Psychology, are likely to be posted shortly. 

Generally, these are two year rotating positions. 
Why rotate? 
For people unfamiliar with the NSF Rotator Program, it allows a Professor or advanced Research Scientist to come to Washington for a year or two and assume the role and responsibilities of a program officer. They are both Program and Review; they run the review meetings ("Panels" at NSF), and make funding decisions. One year is a bit too short to do anything truly innovative, such as start a new program, but with a two-year stint you can have a permanent effect in shaping the field. 

That is how many people start in science administration. Others go back to their university much better informed about funding opportunities and about how NSF works. 

Important note: You don't have to 'waste' a sabbatical to do it, as most institutions will allow you to take a leave of absence (the NSF pays your full salary either through your university or as a federal employee). You will learn a lot about how the grants process works, and get to enjoy all that Washington has to offer. 

Please forward this announcement to anyone you think might be interested.
Thank you.